Think before you click

As we start the breeding season, please be sensible and responsible when using social media to report sightings for sensitve breeding species. The Rare Breeding Birds Panel issued revised guidance in April 21 see here and here. Advice on finding rarities from our Recorders is available here. Remember: the birds must come first.

Wildlife Crime

If you witness or suspect wildlife crime then please contact the police (ask for a Wildlife Crime Officer) or RSPB. Your information will be dealt with in confidence but if, for any reason, you are reluctant to take either of those routes then please at least pass the information to Crimestoppers by ringing 0800 555111

Site Restrictions

Several of the sites in the county have some restrictions on access:

• Aston-on-Trent GP: This is a private working gravel pit with permit only access during working hours. The site cannot be seen from the A50 pull-in because of the height of trees/bushes. No access should be attempted AT ANY TIME, however, occasional visits organised by the DWT and DWT/DOS - places limited, see Meetings and Trips page
• Barrow GP: This is a private site and can only be viewed from the south of the river on the Anchor Church side
• Drakelow NR: a DWT site with restricted access to members
• Foremark Reservoir: No access at any time to the area along the dam wall or the west side of the reservoir
• High Bridge GP: Access from the A38 and take extreme care when crossing the hump-backed bridge. This is a dangerous working gravel pit and heavy lorries use the site during working hours so best visited in the evening or weekend but be aware work can occur at any time and parking is difficult during the working week. There should be no attempt to gain access during the working day. The pits should only be viewed from the lane
• Willington GP: Please stay on the main tracks, do not use the gravel company roads. Currently the Canal Pit (north-west side of the railway line) is very difficult to view from the Canal Bank or from the Canal Bridge due to tall vegetation. Signs now on this pit which say "No Access to Birdwatchers"

Safety first! Respect landowner's privacy. "The interests of the bird comes first". Follow the Birdwatchers Code of Conduct